I have been away in beautiful North Conway, NH teaching a StrongFirst Kettlebell User Course so today I’m reposting a slightly edited post from the Skill of Strength blog…it’s worth mentioning again!
Thats me, no really đ
I have been lifting weights since I was 14. I have been a strength coach for almost 10 years. In those years I have learned many valuable lessons from mentors, friends, coaches and coworkers.
One lesson still holds true to this very day…Nobody likes an a$$.
We all know this person and some of us (including myself) have been this person at one time. We cut people short, we “big time” them, create conflict when it’s completely unnecessary, and act like our poop doesn’t stink. I am not sure why egos are so prevalent in the strength and conditioning world, but they are and I don’t see it changing any time soon.
But why?
We’ve all learned something from someone else. By reading books or blogs, having conversations or simply watching from afar, the learning process is sure to continue as you mature as a strength coach.
Let’s face it…we rip each other off (which is great :)) and base opinions off of our own experiences. I do believe this helps to shape us as coaches and as people, especially if you surround yourself with positive people who help you learn and grow.
However, if you surround yourself with negative people who constantly think it’s their way or the highway, you’ll eventually become an a$$ too.
I have met some of the best coaches in the world. I am talking about the biggest names in then Strength and Conditioning mega-universe. When these people speak, we all [should] listen. The information is usually great. These professionals have the ability to make a huge impact on younger trainers in the industry. People like Dan John, Brett Jones, Pavel and David Jack are top notch professionals. They are always friendly, willing to help and genuinely care about sharing and guiding others. These guys are damn good at what they do, but they don’t have an ego, they have no reason to “big time” anyone and simply put, they aren’t a$$holes. Could they be? Yup, they are the best (in my opinion). They have spent time in the trenches and have been named as the guru’s in our field. I believe that each of them have made a conscious decision to do the right thing.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are the turds. The cocky, know-it-alls who clearly think they’re way above anyone else. You ask a simple question and get a snippy or sarcastic remark.
They know it’s not that hard to give a clear, helpful and honest answer, but they’re too busy acting assholier than thou (just made that phrase up, sweet huh?). YES, WE KNOW YOU ARE SMART, BUT DON’T BE AN A$$!!!
Every time you act this way, you’re missing a chance to make a positive impact on someone who is trying to learn and grow, but since you’ve decided you are much more important than everyone else, you don’t time for the minions.
…and thats how we feel. đ
Kidding aside, let’s all try to make a positive impact on everyone we meet. Share knowledge, find a mentor and be a mentor.
Remember your time in the trenches. Learn from your mistakes and come out stronger each time. Find something you love and be great at it.
Remember, every time you speak, teach or train, you have two choices. Make the right one.